Walter E. Nelson Co. (Wenco), Portland, Ore., acquired Portland-based Bob Nagel Distributing.

The acquisition is in keeping with Wenco's growth strategy, which over the past 20 years has included the addition of eight distribution branches and the building of a new corporate headquarters and two warehouses, according to CEO Mike Nelson.

The joining of these two family-owned businesses, will benefit employees, broaden product lines, improve distribution and purchasing power and provide better value to the combined customer base, says Nelson.